6 Best Places to Shop in North Island's West Coast, New Zealand

This is considered one of New Zealand's leading independent bookstores (and they are becoming a rare breed).

This small but thriving business near Stratford is turning possum, a local environmental pest, into high-end items using all-natural tanning processes. Designer fur and leather products such as hats, rugs, coats, and scarves are sold.

Thanks to leading New Zealand, Australian, French, Italian, Turkish, and Danish labels, this boutique has the best selection of designer clothing in town. It also stocks plus-size items, as well as European shoes. If you work up an appetite while browsing, just wander through to the adjoining bakery and cafés.

For magnificent locally made arts and crafts with an edge, visit Kina, which exhibits the works of Taranaki artists and carries contemporary design pieces, from jewelry to sculpture.

This gallery sells contemporary and traditional New Zealand and international art, sculpture, jewelry, crafts, and furniture, with changing exhibition space.

This private art gallery displays and sells collections from specific artists it represents. It is well located directly opposite the city's public gallery in Te Manawa.